The University of Idaho (UI) released a statement last Thursday acknowledging that there is an "external investigation team" is being conducted into the university's volleyball coach, Chris Gonzalez, based on allegations made by former and some current players on his team. 

A leading educational institution with over 300 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, the UI is committed to maintaining the excellence that distinguishes it among its northern counterparts and has has several varsity sports that compete with its team, the Idaho Vandals. 

"The University of Idaho is deeply concerned about the allegations made by some members of the women's volleyball team against their coach, Chris Gonzalez," begins the statement issued by the public university located in the northwestern of the United States, specifically in the city of Moscow, in the state of Idaho.

According to the UI press release, an investigation into the alleged misconduct began in November 2023, but was delayed until the end of the volleyball season at the request of the complainants. The investigation began "around legal issues and has been expanded to include climate and culture concerns," according to the statement. 

Terry Gawlik, UI's Athletic Director, commented in an emailed response to the Tribune on Tuesday, "We cannot discuss specific cases or personnel issues. But, in general, we take all complaints seriously, investigate them and take appropriate action." 

The allegations against Gonzalez became public with the publication of a report by Scott M. Reid of the Orange County Register, citing testimony from nine Idaho players, including six from the 2023 team. The allegations against Gonzalez included emotional abuse, physical abuse, intimidation, harassment and withholding food.

The article also claimed that 13 players complained to Dr. Gawlik and other university officials, alleging that the complaints were "routinely ignored and dismissed by Gawlik and other university officials." 

Kalisha Goree, an assistant coach during the 2022 season, denied the allegations against Gonzalez in statements given to Reid. The UI also said in its statement that the accused is "fully cooperating" with the investigation. 

The University of Idaho, which proudly boasts on its website that it was voted the best university in the state in 2023 by readers of the Idaho Business Review, concluded by saying: "Our goal is to ensure that we understand the concerns, act on any findings and work to rebuild an effective and supportive volleyball culture. Neither Gonzalez nor any of the other staff involved in the allegations have been placed on administrative leave.